U-Report in Kyrgyzstan
U-Report is a digital platform by UNICEF that lets young people share their thoughts on important topics in their lives.
What is U-Report?
UNICEF launched U-Report in 2011. It allows young people to voice their opinions through real-time polls. Even in remote areas, young people can access valuable information via this platform. Globally, there are 31.2 million U-Reporters in 97 countries. In Kyrgyzstan, UNICEF collaborates with the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sport, and Youth Policy to use and promote U-Report, which is overseen by a Steering Committee made up of representatives from the Kyrgyz Government, Parliament, Youth Congress, and U-Report volunteers.
How it works
Young activists can join U-Report through WhatsApp, Telegram, or other social media messengers. After signing up, users receive notifications about new polls. These polls are typically brief and cover various topics like poverty and online safety. All registered users can vote anonymously, and the results are instantly published on Kyrgyzstan’s U-Report page.
Becoming a U-Reporter
Participating in U-Report is free, voluntary, and open to all young people aged 14-28 in Kyrgyzstan. To take part in U-Report polls, you need a computer, mobile phone, or tablet, along with a connection to a Kyrgyzstan mobile operator or internet access.
There are several ways to become a U-Reporter:
- WhatsApp: Find the @UReportKGBot bot, send the word "START," and answer some short questions.
- Facebook: Search for the UReportKyrgyzstan page, send "START" via personal messages, and answer a few questions to sign up.
- Telegram: Find the @UReportKGBot bot, send the word "START," and answer short questions.
With U-Report, important information can reach young people in even the most remote parts of the country. The poll results can be used for constructive discussions among adolescents, young people, and stakeholders, including the government.
Who are the U-Report volunteers?
U-Report volunteers assist UNICEF in promoting U-Report by organizing public events and running campaigns. Volunteering offers young people a chance to enhance their organizational, public speaking, and communication skills.
Most importantly, it's an opportunity to contribute to youth development in Kyrgyzstan.
Becoming a U-Report Volunteer
To become a U-Report volunteer, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You should be between 16 and 25 years old.
- You must have at least a secondary education or a bachelor's degree. Relevant volunteer or work experience is a plus.
- Fluency in Kyrgyz and Russian is required, and English proficiency is advantageous. Skills like social media marketing, video editing, public speaking, singing, and playing musical instruments are also beneficial.
- Volunteers are accepted from all regions of the country.
If you're interested in becoming a volunteer, click the button below and fill out the online form (in Russian/Kyrgyz).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should I dedicate to U-Report volunteering?
Volunteers are encouraged to spend an average of 60 hours per month on volunteering, which can be balanced with studies.
Will I receive any financial compensation?
While there is no monetary reward, volunteering with UNICEF offers valuable experience and supports child safety and well-being programs. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in capacity-building training sessions, enhancing your leadership, teamwork, public speaking, and emergency preparedness skills, and collaborate with other volunteers.
Is a good level of English required?
English proficiency is not mandatory but can be an advantage.
Who can I contact for additional questions?
For more information, please email Aijan Abdesova, UNICEF Youth Engagement Officer, at aabdesova@unicef.org.